Transmissions are one of the most complex components of a vehicle. Whether you have an automatic or a manual, wear and tear will inevitably lead to the need for transmission repair. Below are a few of the most common red flags that indicate your car’s gearbox needs professional attention.

5 Signs of a Failing Transmission

1. Grinding

Grinding noises when shifting gears signal a worn clutch, which is a common manual transmission repair issue. If left unattended, it can damage other components including the flywheel and pressure plate.

2. Burning Odor

Transmission fluid should have a sweet smell. When the transmission in a vehicle is going bad or overheating, the liquid may emit a burning smell. This often means there is a leak or the fluid is dirty and must be changed.

3. Difficulty Shifting Gears

If your car switches gears for no reason or falls out of gear while driving, the cause could be low fluid or a cable out of place. You might also notice a jerking reaction when shifting. This is a problem that can be dangerous to you and other drivers, so have a repair technician diagnose it as soon as possible.

4. Cloudy Fluid

If the fluid appears dark or cloudy instead of bright red, there could be water or debris in the transmission, which a technician should examine right away.

5. Leaking Fluid

A pool of this red fluid around your vehicle means you have a serious leak. Take your car in for repair right away to avoid gears seizing from lack of lubrication.

Immediately attending to these problems will save you money on future transmission repairs. If you live within a 25-mile radius of Columbus, NE, trust the mechanics at Auto Quality with your car. These certified technicians are dedicated to keeping your vehicle safe and offering fair prices. They value their reputation for honesty and integrity among the residents of Platte County. To learn more about their services, call (402) 564-7360 or visit their website.